Neuralink, led by Elon Musk, achieves milestone with inaugural human brain implantation.
Neuralink, Elon Musk’s venture, has achieved a significant breakthrough by successfully completing the first human brain implant procedure, as confirmed by Musk himself on the social media platform X. The operation took place on Monday and has been reported as successful, with the patient undergoing a smooth recovery process.
Musk shared promising insights regarding the initial outcomes of the brain implant, highlighting the detection of neuron spikes, which paves the way for users to control electronic devices such as phones or computers through mere thoughts. Initially targeting individuals with limb disabilities to enhance communication speed, the endeavor draws parallels to the groundbreaking work of Stephen Hawking.
Dubbed “Telepathy,” Neuralink’s maiden product was unveiled by Musk in a recent social media update. The approval granted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last May for Neuralink’s inaugural human trial marked a pivotal moment, following earlier controversies surrounding alleged animal fatalities during experimental phases.
Enables control of your phone or computer, and through them almost any device, just by thinking.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 30, 2024
Initial users will be those who have lost the use of their limbs.
Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal.
In September 2023, Neuralink launched the PRIME Study, an acronym for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface, aiming to assess the safety and functionality of its N1 implant and surgical robot (R1). The study targets individuals with paralysis, with the R1 Robot facilitating the precise placement of ultra-fine, flexible threads from the N1 Implant in brain regions associated with movement intention.
Once implanted, the cosmetically invisible N1 Implant wirelessly transmits brain signals to an accompanying app, deciphering movement intentions. The primary objective of this brain-computer interface is to empower users to manipulate computer cursors or keyboards using solely their thoughts.
